The germicidal properties of the leaves of this tree are known to the Australian native tribes in
New South Wales, who used them in a mixture with mud to treat their wounds, insect bites and other skin conditions.

The first articles that detailed the antiseptic and bactericidal properties of the tea tree oil date back to 1930. Later on, other articles published on The Australian Journal of Dentistry, The British Medical Journal and The Australian Journal of Pharmacy also highlight those properties.